How to Treat Sinusitis Naturally

Sinusitis or chronic sinusitis is a condition in which the sinuses are inflamed due to the body suffering from a cold, flu, infection, systemic fungal infection, poor diet, and/or allergies. It can be a very uncomfortable condition for many people, the symptoms of which are often not cured through the use of over the counter drugs, but there are natural things you can do to help.

Symptoms

Any of the following symptoms could mean that you or someone you know has sinusitis:

• Nasal congestion and stuffiness (with or without mucous discharge)
• Pressure or pain in the sinuses
• Headaches
• Fatigue

Natural Remedies

To alleviate any pain associated with this condition and to treat the actual infection, here are some natural remedies to treat sinusitis:

• Steaming with essential oils: essential oils that contain antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties (such as eucalyptus, tea tree or rosemary oil) are useful in treating sinusitis.
• Eliminate allergens: this should be the first step anyone who suffers with sinusitis should take. Identify what allergens trigger a sinusitis flare up, then remove those items from the spaces that you frequently inhabit. If the allergen that triggers you is a natural one (pollen, grass, etc.) be sure to have good ventilation and air circulation in your home and to change out of the clothes you wear outside in order to have the least amount of contact with the allergen. In addition, be sure to have a clean space as allergens such as dust, mold and house mites can be easily breathed in a house that is not regularly cleaned.
• Stay hydrated: this is key to having a healthy body that is able to fight off infection. Drink lukewarm to warm fluids such as tea and lemon water to help thin the mucus in your body and relieve congestion. In addition to this, it may be helpful to stay away from dairy products and other foods that cause mucus build up.
• Strengthen your immune system: allergens tend to attack dysfunctional or weak immune systems. Therefore, by making moves to improve your immune system through proper diet (eliminating sugar, drinking enough water), practicing healthy sleep hygiene, and improving lifestyle habits, your sinuses will thank you.

Your local naturopath can also help you. With specialized advice and treatment by a naturopath, you can find yourself in a better, more comfortable path through this allergen-ridden season. Call Dr. Cecilia Ho, naturopath in Pickering, to book an appointment and get started on the best natural treatment for your sinusitis: 905-492-8688.